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New free service to help with Development Applications

27 Jul 2012

Mayor of Hurstville, Cr Steve McMahon today announced changes to pre-lodgement services for minor development proposals in another step towards slashing red tape and making it easier to do business with Council.

Mayor McMahon said Council will offer a range of free pre-lodgement services from 6 August 2012.

“Delays in the assessment process generally arise due to insufficient or inadequate information and can also be quite expensive,” he said.

“With the cost of living skyrocketing, it is necessary to do everything we can to give our mums and dads and local homeowners and small business operators a helping hand.

“Council will offer pre-lodgement services for minor development proposals prior to them being submitted, as well as for Complying Development Certificate (CDC) or Construction Certificate (CC) applications.”

Mayor McMahon said the services include a Development Application (DA) Lodgement Interview, Minor Development Advice, and Complying Development Certificate or Construction Certificate Advice.

“The DA Lodgement Interview will help improve the quality of applications lodged, and as a result, reduce the number of applications refused, rejected or delayed because of inadequate information,” he said.

“The DA’s supporting information will be reviewed before it’s lodged and customers will then be advised whether the application is satisfactory.

“Customers can also seek advice on minor developments, bringing in concept plans for review and to discuss technical or compliance related matters.”

Mayor McMahon said advice on Complying Development Certificates or Construction Certificates will also be offered.

“This will help address compliance issues associated with the Building Code of Australia and with the process in obtaining these certificates,” he said.

Mayor McMahon said that customers can access these services through a ‘self-service’ online booking system.

“Using this system, customers can select the relevant service they require, manage their bookings with staff and attach concept plans if available via our website,” he said.